Celebrating the life of Diane M. Smith

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Obituary for Diane M. Smith

Diane M. Smith

Age 64 of Owosso, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, November 19 at the University of Michigan Hospital, Ann Arbor.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, November 25, 2017, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Michael O’Brien officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Nelson House Funeral Home from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, November 24.

Diane was born to Maurice and Mary Eileen Klein on July 8, 1953 in Flint. She attended Catholic schools in the Flint area and graduated in the first class of Powers High School in 1971.

While working at the brokerage house of H.B. Shane and Co. in 1972, Diane met Dave, her husband of 39 years. They were married at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Flint on April 15, 1978.

The highlight of Diane’s life was the birth of her daughter, Alicia, in 1988. Diane was grateful to be able to stay at home with her until Alicia began attending school at Emerson Elementary, where she would soon apply to work as a Title I Paraprofessional. While her initial intention was to remain close to her daughter, Diane would find a passion for teaching young students how to read, and would spend 21 years doing so. She was driven by the unique and special way a child’s face would light up with accomplishment. This dedication to children and love for teaching and mentoring is what would later inspire Alicia to become a high school English teacher. With her husband, David, she loved attending Alicia’s various athletic events, from elementary-age softball games to varsity tennis matches, and especially watching the many band concerts and marching shows. Also, one of the most special days in Diane’s life was watching Alicia graduate with a degree in English from Grand Valley State University, which would lead her to her career in education.

Diane was known for her compassion, humility, and strength. She was a rare and truly genuine person who had a gift for listening. She could find the truth within a person, fully accept them for it, and go out of her way to try and give them peace and understanding. Although she never recognized the impact she had on the people around her, her family could see it in those she touched with her love, kindness, and caring heart. She had a strength that carried her and her family through the many health complications she faced. While it could often be hard to find the positivity within these situations, she could at least find the humor to work through them. She had a contagious laugh and a beautiful smile to match. Anyone that has been in a room with her knows how infectious either could be. She was a truly good person, who never saw anything but the best in people.

The saddest part of Diane leaving so soon, is the expected birth of her first grandchild in March. It is an understatement to say that she was excited about this. Diane already had plans for setting up the nursery, and frequently spoke about staying with Alicia, after the birth, to help with baby, Liam. Now, Grandma will not be there.

Diane was predeceased by her parents, Maurice and Mary Eileen Klein; father and mother in-law, Harrison and Florence Smith; her brother, Robert and his wife, Sally Klein; brother-in-law, Dick Swanson; and niece, Mary Brecht.

Diane’s wishes would have been to set up a college fun for her future grandson, Liam. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in care of Alicia Wells to be deposited into a 529 college savings plan.

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